Nadezhda Grishaeva: fitness is welcoming

When opening a fitness center, few people think about the fears and apprehensions when visiting gyms. Sometimes, a fitness center seems to the average individual as an inaccessible place they’re not meant to be part of, and some are afraid of critical glances and judgments. It’s necessary to recognize the psychological aspects of potential visitors to ensure their comfort. Nadezhda Grishaeva, the founder of Anvil Fitness Club Moscow, shared with Sostav insights the unforeseen aspects of the fitness world.

Understanding gym-related fears

In English, there’s a term, gymphobia, indicating fear of the gym. Another less common term is jimtimidation, a blend of ‘gym’ (meaning hall) and ‘intimidation’ — it signifies the fear a person feels about entering a fitness club, worried they’ll be the odd one out, attracting askew glances. Jimphobia is one of the reasons why individuals are hesitant to engage in fitness activities. Often, a fitness center appears to many as some inaccessible place they’re not meant to be part of.

Before we define and understand gymphobia’s roots, it’s crucial to differentiate it from gymnophobia. This fear, too, is prevalent among clients and deters them from joining wellness clubs. Yet, it’s a distinct fear — gymnophobia is the dread of nudity, the anxiety over being seen naked or undressed.

Many harbor complex feelings towards their body and nudity. People’s fear levels vary, influenced by different contexts. Some might dread public nudity, like in gym changing rooms, while others might be uncomfortable with the sight of others’ nudity. Numerous factors, including religious beliefs, past traumas, or body shame, can influence one’s reluctance to be seen naked or to view nudity.

Overcoming nudity fears is challenging but beneficial for mental well-being and self-confidence. At Anvil Club, how have we tackled this issue? We’ve installed individual enclosed shower stalls, offering a space not just for showering but also for changing in privacy. Our king-sized showers were designed for ultimate visitor comfort.

For gymnophobia, experts suggest practicing mirror exercises, where you observe and accept your naked reflection. Interestingly, Anvil boasts over a thousand mirrors, not just for self-acceptance but also due to a common trait among bodybuilders: narcissism, which I’ll discuss later.

Returning to jimphobia, this fear stems from various concerns:

• uncertainty about gym routines, how to execute exercises correctly, and appropriate behavior, often seen in newcomers;
• Self-comparison with surrounding individuals, particularly professional athletes;
• The impression of being observed, discussed, or judged by others.

How to overcome fears in the gym

For a new gym-goer, the gym environment can appear daunting. Some fitness machines are as complex as electric cars. Initial hesitations are common when trying something new. It’s common to question if they’re dressed correctly, might look silly, or will manage the session. This is a normal part of trying new experiences. Remember, even Arnold Schwarzenegger started as a beginner. Every fitness enthusiast was once a novice.

I advocate for dedicating the first few sessions to learning. My advice is to hire a personal trainer. Studies show that personalized training is more effective. Familiarity breeds comfort. The more frequently you visit, the more comfortable you’ll become.

A common issue for newcomers is not knowing how to use the equipment. A simple remedy is an introductory tour. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from trainers. At Anvil, we ensure new members are always guided initially.

Comparing oneself to others can be daunting. Observing others’ achievements can lead to comparisons. Such comparisons might feel discouraging. It’s best to focus on your own journey.

Many fear being watched or judged in the gym. The reality is, most gym-goers are concentrated on their own routines. Judgment from others says more about them than about you. Disregard such worries.

Most gyms provide introductory sessions. Group fitness classes are a great way to acclimate and meet people. A modern gym is not just for exercise but also a place for comfort and socializing. Don’t let jimphobia deter you. We welcome you to start your fitness path at Anvil.

Sports narcissists

Ever encountered someone overly confident in the gym? Or those who react poorly to any critique? Or the person who constantly seeks attention through loud or showy behaviors? This behavior is indicative of gym narcissism.

Narcissistic personality disorder is characterized by self-centeredness and a lack of empathy. A healthy focus on fitness is good, but obsession has its downsides. It’s important to recognize and manage these tendencies.

Narcissism should not be confused with genuine self-appreciation. It’s more apt to describe sports narcissists as individuals obsessed with their physical prowess, yet this obsession is akin to an addiction. They are infatuated by an idealized version of themselves, which serves as a shield against their underlying feelings of insufficiency and self-doubt. Do fitness clubs have their share of narcissists? Indeed, there are.

For a well-rounded individual, physical and mental well-being are aligned, as the saying goes: A sound body houses a sound mind. Dealing with phobias or narcissistic tendencies might require professional help. Thus, consulting a psychologist and engaging in personal therapy can be a valuable complement to regular gym visits.